In the fall a wide variety of pests begin invading homes because of environmental cues such as shorter and cooler days, plus less food available outside. They start by seeking shelter in cracks and crevices, then gradually follow these openings deeper inside until they often pop out right into our living and storage areas.

Although a few of these pests may become immediately noticeable; many lie quiet until awakened by a warmer period from fall to early spring. Responding partly to interior lights (which they mistake for a bright spring day), the pests continue crawling deeper inside. Some of the newer pests that do this include stink bugs, Asian lady beetles, and western conifer seed bugs that are all spreading to new areas. Others that continue to be serious fall invaders include cluster flies and face flies, boxelder bugs, elm leaf beetles, root weevils and clover mites.

Some pests invade year-round, but much more so in the fall. These include rats, mice, crickets, earwigs, ants, millipedes, paper wasps, and many spiders. Sac spiders are fall invaders that can deliver a painful bite. (The pain feels like a bee sting, and lasts for 1-2 hours.) Wild animals such as raccoons and squirrels also try to break into crawl spaces, basements, and attics to find a more protected place to spend the winter.

This is a busy time of the year for these invading pests, and it is important that we stay ahead of them to prevent serious pest problems. Our professional pest management services are especially important to protect you, your home and your belongings from pests that can cause damage or are health risks.